Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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44. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding benefits in budget 2015 for carers and pensioners (details supplied) in Dublin 3; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40636/14]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The person concerned is not in receipt of a payment from this Department. Accordingly, he does benefit from social protection measures announced in the recent Budget. He may, however, depending on his level of income benefit from USC and income tax measures announced by my colleague, the Minister for Finance.

Persons on low income, such as income from an occupational pension, may qualify for a means tested payment from my Department subject to satisfying the statutory conditions for the relevant scheme. In addition, persons who are looking after another person who requires full time care and attention because of age, disability or illness may be eligible for a carer's allowance payment. The latter payment is means tested. The first €332.50 of gross weekly income (€665 per week in the case of a couple) is not taken into account in determining entitlement. Reduced rates may also be payable where income exceeds the amount disregarded in full.

In addition, recipients of carer’s allowance are automatically entitled to the respite care grant (RCG). Other people who are not in receipt of a social welfare payment but who are providing full time care and attention are also eligible for the grant.

I announced, on Budget Day, a number of welfare initiatives which will benefit pensioners, carers and people with disabilities who are in receipt of a welfare payment. There will be an increase in the living alone allowance of €1.30 per week, bringing the rate up from €7.70 to €9 for pensioners and people with disabilities. The living alone allowance is a payment made to pensioners and people with disabilities who live alone and was last increased in 1996.

In line with the Government’s Statement of Priorities, I have introduced a water support payment of €100 to recipients of the Household Benefit Package, to help older people and other vulnerable groups meet the cost of water services. In addition, I also introduced a payment of €100 per annum to fuel allowance recipients who are not in receipt of the Household Benefits Package. This measure will also work to alleviate the impact of water costs.

The Christmas Bonus was abolished by the previous Government in 2009. I am pleased to say that I am in a position to partially restore the Bonus this year. A bonus of 25% will be paid in early December to all long-term welfare recipients including pensioners and carers. This will cost over €63 million and is in recognition of the position of vulnerable households.